CT Angiography
A CTA or CT Angiogram is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images or slices of the vessels. In CT angiography (CTA), a contrast material (also known as "dye") is injected into a vein to produce detailed images of blood vessels. Physicians use the procedure to identify disease and aneurism.
If your exam requires the use of contrast, your doctor may require you come off certain medications for a period of time. Always speak with your doctor before stopping any medications. You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam or you may be given a gown to wear during the procedure. Metal objects including jewelry, eyeglasses, and hairpins may affect the CT images and should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours beforehand, especially if a contrast material will be used in your exam. You should inform your physician of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies. If you have a known allergy to contrast material, or "dye," your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. If you are a female of childbearing years, you will be asked if there is any chance you could be pregnant.
You can find the prepartaion for your exam by clicking Here
Please arrive about 15 minutes before your exam to fill out a brief questionnaire and history form, or you can pre-fill them out online Click Here
During your exam, your technologist will talk you through each step. You will lie on a table that will slowly move in and out of a large machine that resembles a donut. The technologist will ask you to hold your breath several different times throughout the process. The length of the exam will depend on the type of study and location of body part being examined. The exam will require the use of contrast, a special dye, to highlight certain areas of the body of interest shown in your images. The contrast will be administered intravenously.
Your technologist will remind you to be sure to drink plenty of liquids after your exam. Your technologist will tell you when it is appropriate to resume your medication if you were ordered to come off it for your exam. The images are sent to one of our onsite board certified radiologist’s reading stations, where they are read and interpreted. Your results report will be faxed or emailed to your referring physician within 24 hours of your exam and your referring doctor will be the one to speak with you about your results. We always welcome our patients to pick up a copy of their reports for their own personal records.
Here is a link for the Fast-Check Forms and Questionnaires.
